Alan Henry

You never know when you'll need a survival kit, or at least the ability to light a fire or signal for help. Whether you're out camping or you just want to be prepared for any possible emergency, this pocket survival kit from Instructables user diyoutdoorsman can help you get out of a bad situation, whether your car has broken down in the middle of nowhere or you're just roughing it miles away from civilization.

Among the tools in the pocket survival kit are a signaling mirror and a mini flashlight, operated by a AAA battery. There's also a rescue whistle, a button compass, post it notes and a small lead pencil, damp-proof matches, tinder, fire steel, a blade, and more. The whole kit is small enough to fit in a small waterproof plastic bag, weighs about 10 ounces, and is designed to be carried on your person whether you're in the wilderness or just trying to find the closest gas station after breaking down.

Do you keep an emergency kit in your bag or your car just in case the unthinkable happens? What do you keep in it? Share your tips in the comments.